Analisis Literatur: Bagaimana Program Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) Mengatasi Brain Fog dan Meningkatkan Kognisi Siswa

Abstract

Brain fog resulting from subclinical malnutrition and the absence of a daily breakfast constitutes a major biological barrier that undermines students’ concentration and academic performance at school. This study aims to evaluate the strategic role and clinical mechanisms of the Free Nutritious Meals (Makan Bergizi Gratis/MBG) Program in addressing brain fog and improving students’ cognitive function through a systematic literature review. The study employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) following the PRISMA protocol to synthesize relevant and reputable scientific articles retrieved from Scopus, ScienceDirect, and PubMed and published over the past ten years. The literature analysis consistently indicates that adequate intake of essential macronutrients and micronutrients, including iron, B-complex vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, through school-based food intervention programs can help stabilize blood glucose homeostasis, support synaptic membrane regeneration, and optimize the synthesis of key neurotransmitters in the brain. The synthesis of the reviewed literature also demonstrates a reduction in symptoms of daily mental fatigue, accompanied by improvements in working memory capacity, attention span, and logical reasoning abilities among students in classroom settings. This study concludes that the MBG Program serves not merely as a social and public health safety net but also as a critical macro-level cognitive investment for strengthening the intellectual capacity of the younger generation. The findings highlight the importance of standardizing evidence-based menus grounded in neuro-nutrition (brain food) principles to maximize academic achievement in the implementation of national nutrition policies.